Jimmy’s Mercedes-Benz Vito is a peak performer

The walkers were up and down Great Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis, near Fort William in Scotland, in about five hours. Jimmy then drove them through the night to Scafell Pike in the Lake District, where he grabbed a nap in the Vito before setting off again on the drive to Snowdon in North Wales.

“We had a nervous moment or two when were held up by a road accident on the A55, which meant we were late arriving at the start point,” recalled Jimmy. “The walkers had to pick up the pace but they rose to the challenge and made it to the top and back with just five minutes to spare.”

By the time he had chauffeured them back to Bolton, Jimmy had clocked-up close to 900 miles at the wheel. “Meanwhile, the walkers were also able to relax and even sleep during the drives between peaks. It was the perfect vehicle for the job, and a very important member of the team.”

As a 116 CDI variant, Ciceley’s Vito is powered by a 161 hp, 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine capable of returning up to 45.6 mpg (combined cycle). Its three rows of seats, mounted on rails so they can be slid backwards or forwards, meant there was ample room for Jimmy and his six passengers, as well as all their kit.

Like all Vito models, the vehicle is also equipped with a class-leading array of standard safety features. Jimmy did not activate it, but the innovative Attention Assist system, which automatically detects and signs of drowsiness and alerts the driver through a combination of visual and audible warning signals, was certainly reassuring.

Mike Lewis, Dealer Principal at Ciceley Commercials, said: “We were delighted to be able to support Jimmy, Daniella and their team on this very worthy undertaking, and we knew the Vito would be just the vehicle they needed.”

The charity appeal is still ongoing – those wishing to donate can do so throughwww.justgiving.com/fundraising/daniella-chesney